Since the scheme is run by a bona fide financial institution, the Bristol Credit Union, traders can pay each other large amounts of money at the click of a button. Also unique is the ability to pay local business rates in local currency. The council leader, Councillor Barbara Janke, is fully behind the scheme.

She told me: "This is a chance to demonstrate the economic resilience of the city. We want to make it as easy as possible for people to use the Bristol Pound."